Authorities are probing a cluster of suspected food poisoning cases in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental tied to the consumption of “aloy” and “tulingan,” as the local government moves to alert residents and tighten safety measures.
In a public advisory on Tuesday, April 7, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources–Negros Island Region (BFAR-NIR) said its technical team is now conducting a field investigation, with initial findings indicating symptoms consistent with scombroid fish poisoning (SFP).
The agency explained that SFP does not come from a natural toxin in fish, but develops when fish are not properly chilled from the time they are caught until they reach the market. When exposed to heat, fish such as aloy and tulingan can produce high levels of histamine, which cannot be removed even through cooking or frying.
BFAR-NIR directed fish vendors to sell only fresh products and strictly observe proper handling by keeping fish chilled at a recommended 1:1 ice-to-fish ratio, especially during the summer season.
The Cadiz City government, for its part, earlier urged residents to remain cautious by buying seafood only from reputable vendors, ensuring proper storage and cooking, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms occur after consumption.
Hinigaran town has also temporarily banned the sale of the identified fish after several residents experienced symptoms after eating them.
Consumers were also warned to avoid fish that has a metallic or peppery taste, emits a pungent smell, or has soft and mushy flesh.
BFAR-NIR said it continues to coordinate with the city government and has intensified monitoring of wet markets across Negros Occidental to ensure food safety.
The agency assured the public that it remains focused on protecting consumer health as the investigation continues.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a personal blog on Medium.